Rene' Moawad Foundation (RMF) Gala Reception
“Fashion for a Cause”

By; Rosanna Akhavan-Merhebi

Rene' Moawad Foundation (RMF) held their fifteenth annual benefit gala dinner October 25, 2008 at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Arlington, VA to raise funds for the children of Lebanon. The benefit gala dinner included a silent auction, entertainment and award ceremony. The Master of ceremonies, Congressman Ray LaHood talked about the foundation and the work it does. The foundation plays an important role in providing programs dedicated to helping the poor of Lebanon and providing education to the youth of Lebanon.

RMF founder Nayla Moawad, widow of Lebanon’s President René Moawad, and member of the Lebanese parliament, told the audience that she appreciates the support everyone in helping with their objectives to: Improve the economical, social and rural development of Lebanon and the promotion of a responsible civil society that encourages a national unity and leads to a durable peace. She also mentioned that the proceeds of this year’s gala would be dedicated to the foundation’s ‘Adopt a Student’ program which will provide Lebanon’s youth with the opportunity for a better education in semi-public schools by covering the cost of their tuition and school supplies. The proceeds of the silent auction which included dresses by Jamil Khansa, spa treatments, jewelry, Furs, and many other great things would also go towards the ‘Adopt a Student’ program.

The Rene Moawad Foundation was created in November 22, 1991, exactly two years after the assassination of President Rene Moawad. He was a believer in unity of the Lebanese people. Since the creation of RMF by his widow Nayla Moawad and other prominent Lebanese figures, the foundation has implemented over the years a multitude of development projects which support the disadvantaged in Lebanon. The activities of the foundation are a tribute to the late Rene Moawad and his efforts.

The star studded event included a Fashion show by the very talented Lebanese designer Jamil Khansa. Jamil Khansa obtained his Fashion Design degree in Beirut before he moved to Los Angeles to begin his career in the Fashion industry. His passion for fashion and amazing talent, gained him popularity in Europe and Middle East. He launched shows all over attracting clients worldwide. In 2005, Jamil Khansa was the first Lebanese designer to show during Couture Fashion Week in New York. During that event, he was named "International Fashion Designer of the Year" in recognition for his creativity and exquisitely executed fashions as well as the global reach of his designs.

Jamil Khansa has been a feature designer before at the Rene Moawad Foundations’ galas. This year he donated dresses to the silent auction and presented some of his latest designs on the runway at this year’s RMF gala. These designs were breath taking to say the least. The designs included evening dresses and decorative suits that dazzled the guests. As a fashionista, this event was one to attend not only for the fabulous Fashion on the runway and in the crowd, but the help and support this event brings to the children of Lebanon.

So if you missed out on this year’s event be sure to check RMF’s website for next year’s event and see how you can help give hope. Everyone’s support can help make a difference for so many.

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